Building in Friarsfield

In good pasture, on an old flood plain, within a rectangular enclosure (TS059-112011-). Both this possible building and its enclosure are visible on an aerial photograph (CUCAP APA 18, 13 July 1966). The building consists of a rectangular area (dims. 16m E-W; 8m N-S) defined by a low earthen bank (Wth 4.5-5.7m; int. H 0.15m-0.43m; ext. H 0.15-0.2m) best preserved along the E side and the E end of the N side (L of sides: 14m at N; 7.5m at E; 13.5m at S; 7m at W). There is a possible entrance gap (Wth c. 3m) at the E end of the N side. There is a shallow external fosse (Wth 2.7-3.1m; D 0.05-0.1m) at the N and S sides. The interior slopes down gently to the W and has a smooth surface. Three cut stone fragments, which appear to be from one window sill, are c. 6m to NE of monument. These are chamfered and line dressed with metal in socket holes on upper side of sill and a pintle hole. Possibly stone from this building was re-used to build the fine gate piers seen around the estate. There is a cut and punch dressed stone visible in a gate pillar c. 400m to NNW. A burial ground (TS059-112004-) is c. 50m to S. There is not sufficient above ground evidence to determine the date and function of this building. It may have been a house or possibly a church given the 'friar' association in the townland name and that there are no known churches in the townland. Compiled by: Jean Farrelly Date of upload: 26 August 2011